Online Reporter
Tellmore Karuma
Machaya High School
Machaya High School in Muzarabani has launched a new initiative aimed at helping learners resist drug and substance abuse, early marriages, bullying and keeping safe from HIV and AIDS.
The Hope Unlocking Day at the school on June 19, was held under the theme “Hope is My Password” and sought to encourage learners to make positive choices and build a better future. Guest of honour and local businessman Mr Taurai Kanhukamwe urged learners to use their talents and locally available resources to create opportunities for themselves instead of turning to drugs or early marriages.
“Discover the needs of your community and provide those needs. That is entrepreneurship,” he said.
Mr Kanhukamwe, who is also a board member of the advisory board of Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Zhemu Soda, encouraged learners to start small businesses using resources available in their communities.
He gave examples of simple businesses such as barbering and selling food and locally available products such as masau.
Junior Member of Parliament for Muzarabani North, Hon Bright Muchabaiwa, challenged young people to take a stand against early marriages.
“As young leaders, we shall not tire of fighting this scourge which is bedevilling our beloved Muzarabani North Constituency,” he said.
Museredza Ward 27 councillor Alderman Godfrey Sosa condemned bullying, saying learners should respect teachers, parents and fellow students.
“If a child bullies another child, there is no hope to talk about,” he said.
Junior Councillor for Ward 27 Yuvannah Chinoda urged learners to reject drugs and remain in school.
“Drugs do not solve problems, but they become the problem. Drug abuse and school dropouts are like best friends; they walk together to steal our brighter future. Boys and girls, let hope be our password!” she said.
The event also gave learners an opportunity to showcase their talents through modelling, dancing, speeches and comedy.
Machaya High School head Mr Charles James welcomed the initiative and called for future editions to include sporting activities so that learners can participate in a wider range of activities under the heritage-based education curriculum.
The initiative is expected to give learners a platform to discuss challenges affecting young people while encouraging them to make responsible choices and unlock their potential.
